HomeDiabetesKnow the initial signs of diabetes to start treatment on time

Know the initial signs of diabetes to start treatment on time

The number of diabetics is growing by the day. People are taken aback when their diabetes is detected. Often the initial signs of diabetes may be confused with those of other or may even go unnoticed. It is very important for all to be aware of the initial symptoms of diabetes; so, that the treatment may start at an early stage. The period of pre-diabetes when the symptoms occur is important and your awareness of the warning signs of diabetes can help you spot them and start with necessary medication to keep it in control.

The autoimmune systems of each person are different. Depending upon the type of diabetes, the stage of advancement, the age of patient, the lifestyle and diet of patient etc, the visible symptoms of diabetes may vary. Diabetes mellitus could be Type 1(juvenile diabetes), Type 2 (any age) or gestational diabetes (among women during pregnancy). Diabetes is caused due to the inability of the body to produce sufficient insulin to breakdown the sugars into energy for the body. Due to the large content of glucose the kidneys start producing additional water to dilute the blood.

In the initial stage you would find the patient having to visit the bathroom very often. This is because the level of blood glucose rises due to which the kidneys have to work overtime to purge them out of the body with the fluids drawn from the tissues. The problem with this is that it may lead to dehydration which in turn may cause other health problems. With the body requiring more fluid intake you would also find the patient feeling very thirsty. It is also caused due to the excess sugar present in the body.

The weight loss among the diabetics is rapid. Even if a diabetic is not on any sort of diet, the weight loss is substantial. Even the frequency of food intake is more. This is because with the body failing to convert the glucose to energy, the accumulated fat is used up for the purpose causing weight loss. Rather the person may be eating more and not gaining weight at all. They may also experience fatigue and weakness as the body cannot process glucose efficiently. The muscles are unable to get sufficient fuel and patients may also experience drowsiness and irritability.

The nervous system maybe affected to some extent. This may cause skin irritability and other skin problems. The skin feels very dry and irritable. Moreover if any wounds are caused they may take more time to heal. They may become infected and cause further complications. There may also be a tingling feeling in the hands and feet. Moreover, due to the rise in the blood sugar levels the fluids in the eyes are also changed which causes blurring of vision. Dark spots, rings around lights and flashing lights and in worst cases, blindness may occur. For those suffering from Type 1 diabetes which is mostly in teenagers and even toddlers some of the early symptoms are the loss of weight. A very important indication is the fruity smell of the breath. The children may also experience excessive thirst, dehydration, fatigue, dryness of skin, abdominal pain etc.

It is very important to be alert about the Type 2 as well as juvenile diabetes. You can ensure that treatment starts at the earliest for any child who may be suffering from juvenile diabetes.

Not just the child but knowing the initial signs of diabetes can mean timely treatment which would make it possible to keep diabetes in control.